It is my pleasure to introduce you to Shalonda Washington. She is a Naples native and graduate of Naples High School. Shalonda grew up in River Park Apartments off of Goodlette-Frank Road. She is a Wife, married to an amazing husband, Jimmy Washington, for 25 years this September, Mother of five adult children, Community Leader and a highly experienced mentor-counselor for women and youth. She is the Owner of Reliable Permitting & B.S.S., Inc. a successful local business providing full service permitting & business support services for 20+ years. She came from humble beginnings and has become a strong member of the Naples community serving so many and blessing them with her gifts. I have been honored to meet Shalonda through a mutual friend and I felt that we became fast friends. She is an inspirational, passionate and humble. Naples needs more women like Shalonda and I feel blessed I have met her. Read below to learn a little more about her!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have a tight knit family that is comprised of 3 college graduates, one high school graduate and my baby brother whom I raised from the age of 10 yrs old, who is now an fine adult young man. Our family enjoys spending life moments giving back to the Collier County Community by meeting the needs of youth & families. We have a non profit organization, Washington Family Ministry that we operate together as a family for 5 years now.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am currently the Owner/Operator of Reliable Permitting & B.S.S., Inc. What I love most is being to conquer the many obstacles that arise in the building industry for our clients.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Brick Tops in Waterside & Bone Fish Grill
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived & worked in Naples all of my life
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
The most interesting person I’ve met in our community is Dr. Oliver Phipps. He is a beloved principle in Collier County who inspires children and educators.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Dominican Republic because the culture is so rich and the water is beautiful.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Iyanla Fix My Life
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Never apologize for being who you are while in front of people who are uncomfortable with themselves “Know your purpose”
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I would like to be on a TV show with my family.
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Jazz Violinist Damion Escobar
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Dairy Queen Down town, as children we could ride our bikes to the beach and we often stopped there for ice cream! It was a wonderful childhood memory.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Dr. Cindy Trimm, I’m enthused with her life of faith, empowerment methods and thought patterns that have allowed her to be renowned and successful both spiritually and in the market place. She’s a best selling author, revolutionary thinker & transformational leader. She is dedicated to serving God and Humanity. We would have lunch at Trulucks on 4th Ave S.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Naples is a very prosperous and safe community to live in.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
It is my ultimate goal to be retired in 10 years.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I yawn excessively during a great work out!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Punta Cana
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is December, Christmas is my favorite holiday and the best single day on the Calendar is Sept 30th, the anniversary of my wedding.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Being able to see a youth that I have mentored reaching extreme successful heights in life as a adult.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
I would have to say it’s my friend Tekoa Pouerie. She overcame trauma and pain to become a successful executive and minister. She is an inspirational person.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
My grannies sweet potato pies baking in the oven
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
LOVE, FAITH, FAMILY